Lexus Makes Life-Sized, Drivable Car Entirely Out of Cardboard

Lexus has created an IS sedan entirely from precision-cut cardboard.

The custom Origami Car has a fully fitted interior, functioning doors, headlights and rolling wheels. In fact, the cardboard car can be driven thanks to an electric motor mounted on its steel and aluminum frame. To make the project a reality, the Japanese automaker turned to LaserCut Works and Scales and Models, a London-based specialist with extensive experience in the design and creation of prototypes, architectural models and bespoke commissions.

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Lexus provided the team with a digital 3D model of the IS, which was then divided into a series of principal parts that were then digitally rendered in 10-mm “slices” to provide the two-dimensional profiles needed to laser cut each of the 1,700 sheets of 10-mm thick cardboard. A water-based wood glue was used to assemble the Origami Car that eventually took three months to build.

“This was a very demanding job, with five people involved in the digital design, modelling, laser cutting and assembly,” said Ruben Marcos, Scales and Models company founder and director. “Just like Lexus, we were committed to producing the best possible quality.”

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